Robert McNamara was a prominent American economist and politician who served as the Secretary of Defense from 1961 to 1968 under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. He played a key role in shaping U.S. military strategy during the Cold War, especially in the Vietnam War, advocating for increased military escalation despite growing public concern. Before his political career, McNamara was a highly successful business executive at Ford, where he was known for his analytical approach and management expertise. After his tenure in government, McNamara became involved in global issues, focusing on development and conflict resolution. He served as the President of the World Bank from 1968 to 1981, promoting economic growth and development in developing countries through various programs and initiatives. His work at the World Bank reflected his belief in data-driven decision-making and his commitment to reducing poverty worldwide. Robert McNamara was a prominent American economist and politician who served as the Secretary of Defense from 1961 to 1968 under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. He played a key role in shaping U.S. military strategy during the Cold War, especially in the Vietnam War, advocating for increased military escalation despite growing public concern. Before his political career, McNamara was a highly successful business executive at Ford, where he was known for his analytical approach and management expertise. After his tenure in government, McNamara became involved in global issues, focusing on development and conflict resolution. He served as the President of the World Bank from 1968 to 1981, promoting economic growth and development in developing countries through various programs and initiatives. His work at the World Bank reflected his belief in data-driven decision-making and his commitment to reducing poverty worldwide.